A majestic March. An array of head-scratching performances. The NBA’s scoring title (his second in three years).
In the end, it didn’t even matter.
After a campaign for the ages and his first full season with the Lakers, Luka Doncic was not named a finalist for this year’s MVP award, adding insult to literal injury as he recovers from a Grade 2 hamstring strain. Instead, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Victor Wembanyama and Nikola Jokic will duke it out for the league’s highest individual honor.
Luka Doncic’s Career Campaign Not Enough To Be MVP Finalist
In 64 games, Doncic averaged a league-high 33.5 points along with 8.3 assists (third best), 7.7 assists and 1.6 steals. He also shot 47.6% from the field and 36.6% from three, recording career-highs in both makes and attempts per game.
The Don’s heroics during a rollercoaster season ultimately fell short—even after his Extraordinary Circumstances Challenge and some clever marketing by the Lakers’ social media accounts.
Scoring champion. Top three in assists per game. Two-time Player of the Month. Four-time Player of the Week.
Numbers don’t lie. pic.twitter.com/o80lqdGzg6
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) April 16, 2026
The National Basketball Players Association pushed for Doncic and Cade Cunningham to remain eligible for awards despite barely missing the 65-game requirement. On Apr. 16, after the NBA approved both appeals, Doncic posted on X:
“I am grateful to the NBPA for advocating on my behalf and to the NBA for their fair decision. It was so important to me to be present for the birth of my daughter in December and I appreciate Mark, Jeanie, Rob, JJ, and the entire Lakers organization for fully supporting me and allowing me to travel to be there. This season has been so special to me because of what my teammates and I have been able to accomplish, and I am honored to have the opportunity to be considered for the league’s end-of-season awards.”
Such consideration turned out to be short lived. Now, Doncic is trying to expedite his return as the Lakers attempt to extend their season.
65-Game Rule Continues to Be Scrutinized
Doncic’s official snub from MVP consideration has once again put the 65-game rule under the microscope. Commissioner Adam Silver has already defended the criteria, championing its fairness and the resulting increase in player participation.
Brian Windhorst on NBA's 65-game rule:
"I think the league likes the rule. I think it is functioning. … One of the things that I've learned as I watch these players really stretch to get to this limit, they really like these awards."
"While it is unpopular, it is working." pic.twitter.com/N07gMafYjQ
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) April 8, 2026
However, many fans, former players and writers remain skeptical of the league minimum. Some continue to call for its reform or removal, citing Doncic and Cunningham’s cases as reasons why.
Another recent cause for concern came courtesy of Anthony Edwards, whose own appeal was denied despite him playing 61 games.
Responding to that news last Thursday, Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch said:
“It sure would be nice to hear an explanation as to why Anthony was denied his 65 games, particularly when you look at the history of Anthony, who plays all the time and has played all the time. I’m not sure why we have a rule if we have an appeals process which is overturned in two-thirds of the cases that were held before it. It feels more like a suggestion than a rule.”
How is Anthony Edwards a finalist for the Clutch Player of the Year award, but he isn’t eligible for All-NBA?
The 65-game rule only applies to MVP, All-NBA, DPOY, All-Defense, and Most Improved Player. It doesn’t apply to Clutch Player, Sixth Man, ROY, or All-Rookie Honors. https://t.co/F4bT27BCwC
— Alex Kennedy (@AlexKennedyNBA) April 19, 2026
While the rule is unlikely to change regardless of this year’s results, there’s reason to believe the NBPA could lobby for adjustments, seeing how they’ve already supported Doncic, Cunningham and Edwards. Their pushback, combined with the fans’ dissent, could lead to more serious debates this summer.
© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
